Wind Load on Facade Calculator

Check facade wind loads for cladding and anchors. Tune factors to match your site conditions. Download clear summaries for reviews and client approvals fast.

Input Parameters

Switch units before entering values.
Use peak/ultimate speed per your local standard.
Typical: mean roof height or mid-facade height.
Affects velocity pressure exposure coefficient Kz.
Use 1.0 if terrain is flat or unknown.
Typical range 0.85–0.95.
Common rigid buildings: 0.85 (approx).
Positive inward, negative suction; depends on zone.
Signed value; often ±0.18 for enclosed (example).
Use per risk category or local provisions.
Overall width of the considered panel/zone.
Height of facade area receiving the pressure.
Results appear above this form after calculation.

Example Data Table

Scenario Unit V z Exposure Kzt Kd G Cp GCpi I Area Output (pnet)
Mid-rise office facade zone Metric 40 m/s 20 m C 1.00 0.85 0.85 0.80 -0.18 1.00 10×12 m² Shows after you run inputs
Corner suction check Imperial 110 mph 60 ft D 1.10 0.85 0.85 -1.20 0.18 1.00 25×30 ft² Shows after you run inputs

Tip: Cp and GCpi are signed. Try both positive and negative to cover critical wind cases.

Formula Used

Velocity Pressure
Metric: qz = 0.613 · Kz · Kzt · Kd · V²
Imperial: qz = 0.00256 · Kz · Kzt · Kd · V²
qz is velocity pressure at height z. Kz is estimated from exposure and height.
Net Facade Pressure & Force
pnet = qz · I · (G·Cp − GCpi)
F = pnet · A
Positive pnet acts inward. Negative pnet indicates suction.

Note: This calculator is an engineering aid for preliminary checks. Confirm coefficients and load combinations per your governing code and project specifications.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Select a unit system first, then enter wind speed and reference height.
  2. Choose an exposure category that matches the surrounding terrain.
  3. Enter Kzt and Kd if you have them; otherwise keep common defaults.
  4. Set G, Cp, and GCpi based on the facade zone and enclosure condition.
  5. Enter importance factor, then facade width and height for the loaded area.
  6. Click calculate to see qz, net pressure, and total force; then export CSV or PDF.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.